How To Avoid Relapse During Overwhelming Times

“Recovery is about progression, not perfection”

- Unknown

The forever busy 21st-century lives of ours often leave us overwhelmed. Those in recovery from addiction must have a hard time during times of stress and anxiety. Often overwhelming times lead to having relapses during recovery.

To avoid relapsing, a few tips might come in handy. Such as:

  • Avoid places with drugs and alcohol
    As a person in recovery, you know that having alcohol and drugs around you during times of overwhelm will trigger you. It’s fine to avoid friendly get-togethers or family gatherings if there’s going to be alcohol. Informing the host that you’re in recovery helps them to be respectful of your current priorities as well.

  • Build new habits
    You know which times you used to do drugs. When you’re under stress, that time of the day might make you feel like a joint of marijuana or a glass of wine will help ease yourself. Defending yourself this way only helps you relapse faster. So, try replacing old habits with new healthier habits like playing outdoors, going to a library, or something else.

  • Exercise
    Exercise helps keep the body fit and improves your sleep pattern. Include exercising in your daily routine if you want to get better faster.

  • Talk to a friend/go to support networks
    If you feel the urge to drink or do drugs again, before letting yourself do it, talk to a friend. You could also talk to a family member or your sober companion, or your recovery coaches.

Affirmation:
I chose to be sober because I’ve accepted that I made bad choices in the past and now I want to get better. Even if the recovery path is difficult and takes me a long time to reach the finish line, I'll do it.

Samantha Penn